TOKYO, April 2 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks fell Thursday morning on concerns the U.S. shutdown could last longer than expected and severely hurt the economy, with concerns rising Japan's healthcare system could buckle if spikes in COVID-19 infections continue in urban areas.

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The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average dropped 154.34 points, or 0.85 percent, from Wednesday to 17,911.07.

The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, lost 15.39 points, or 1.14 percent, at 1,335.69.

Air transportation, consumer credit and metal product-oriented issues comprised those that declined the most by the morning break.